Nature

Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center Get a sense for what a remote seabird colony looks, feels, and smells like at the "Seabird Experience Theater;" admire stunning nature photography at the annual AlaskaWILD exhibit, learn about the environmental work being done to preserve local assets at the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve. 95 Sterling Hwy., Homer, AK; +1 907 235 6961.

Glacier Bay National Park Explore the rifts left behind by glaciers, sea kayak around the bay, take a nature tour of the tidewater forest, keep watch for black bears, artic foxes, gray wolves, and bald eagles. 1 Park Rd., Gustavus, AK; +1 907 697 2230. Limited service in winter. Free; fee for boating/camping.

Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure Marvel at the colors of the Alaskan rain forest, walk through hanging gardens featuring upside-down trees, relax in the atrium and enjoy a cup of tea. 7600 Glacier Hwy., Juneau, AK; +1 907 790 3377. May-Sept. Fee.

Homer Spit Enjoy a stunning walk down this narrow, 4.5-mile stretch of sandy shoal; wander among the shopping, dining, and beach attractions stretched along into the Kachemak Bay; drop a fishing line at the point to catch a trophy-size rainbow trout. Visitors Center: 201 Sterling Hwy., Homer, AK; +1 907 235 7740.

Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge Capture photos of trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and other migratory birds; raft the glacier-fed Tanana River; keep watch for moose, lynx, and arctic wolves searching for dinner on the banks. Mile 1.3 on Borealis Ave., Tok, AK; +1 907 883 5312.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Glimpse the grandeur where the Chugach, Wrangell, and Saint Elias mountain ranges meet; hike past the Liberty Falls and admire a view of St. Elias, the second highest American mountain peak; visit the Kennecott Mines National Landmark to delve into life as a miner. Mile 106.8 Richardson Hwy., Copper Center, AK; +1 907 822 5234. Limited access Sept.-May.